Often included in water decoration, the Water Lily is a fast-growing aquatic plant that is found throughout Aloria’s still waters. Though pretty, the Water Lily is classified as an invasive species in many areas due to its ability to cover the surface of entire bodies of water. In truth, the plant originated in the Daen continent, though the flower was artificially spread as people began planting it as decoration, often unaware of its hardiness and viciously fast growth. Today, the Water Lily is seen in most developed parts of Aloria, carefully tended as seemingly delicate decoration.

Contents

History

The Water Lily was first documented in full by the first Elves living in Teled Methen and later spread with the race to Hyarroc and up into Daendroc. It was often used in the decoration of fountains or artificial ponds, favored for its seemed elegance and resilience, able to be successfully planted in most ornamental bodies of water be it a natural slow-moving stream, an artificial pond in a city, or even a fountain. As the centuries wore on, the plant continued its popularity and spread further, to Elven outposts and colonies, along Elven slaving routes and several less inhabited regions thanks to animal life. When the Cataclysm came, the plant survived in many regions due to its abundance and then fell under the care of the Ailor nations which rose up from the chaos. Ithanians took a particular interest in the flowering lilies, often incorporating them into their architecture and were the first to produce Water Lily perfume cheaply; the fragrance has since become a staple among almost all classes of women. Today, the flower can be found across Aloria but does have limitations. The Water Lily is not found in or near areas above The North Belt because the water is too cold, in Farah’deen because of how arid and dry the continent is, and not on Ceardia as the region is now infested with Void corruption. Regardless, it may soon return to that continent as it continues its circulation across the wider Ailor world and those of its ancient foes.

Appearance

Water Lilies are a water-bound plant, with their roots and stalks completely submerged. Their flowers are half a foot wide in diameter when fully grown in proper conditions without any competition (a rarity for the fast-growing species) which can vary greatly in color. The color of the lily’s flowers is often dictated by environment, though can be selectively bred and grown by horticulturalists. The most common flower colors are whites, pinks, and yellows. Though more exotic colors, such as blue, purple, orange or red are possible. The center of the flower is always the brightest part and grows lighter with each layer of pointed petals. There are often three to four layers of petals folding out from the plant’s dense center. They can only grow in slow-moving or still waters, such as ponds or some lakes, and will extend their stalks to the surface. These stalks have a thin layer of “mucus” on them which is simply an aspect of the plant’s protection. Their roots are small, thin and hairlike. Their leaves are broad and float on the surface of the water, and are often called “lily pads.”

Uses and Abilities

Water lilies are commonly used for decoration, with some use in perfume, as the flower’s fragrance is considered rather pleasant. In the wild, it serves as shelter and food for pond ecosystems, though if left unattended, or if the plant has no predators, it can choke out bodies of water. When used as decoration, one must be careful if other plants or fish are planned to be used along with the Water Lily, as they can grow quickly and aggressively.

Trivia

Water Lily invasiveness is particularly troublesome for Hadaria and Yang-Tzu. Since the plant has been introduced, it has come to dominate the ecosystem, sometimes even choking out entire portions of land useful in aquaculture (such as possible rice fields).

One of the most popular lily perfumes is named “Douce Fleur de L'étang,” and comes from pink-petaled water lilies, the most common type of Water Lily.